The Top 10 Everything of 2009

TIME charts the highs and lows of the past year in 50 wide-ranging lists

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Michelle Obama's Inaugural Gown

US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama arrive for the Midatlantic Regional Inaugural Ball at the Washington Convention Center

Saul Loeb / AFP / Getty

In January, the world wagered for weeks on what America's new First Lady would wear to her husband's historic Inauguration. Michelle Obama didn't disappoint, choosing an ivory chiffon gown by Manhattan-based newcomer Jason Wu. It was a look that evoked new beginnings, not to mention nuptials. The nod from the First Lady changed the course of the 26-year-old Taiwanese American's career, launching his name into the global blogosphere and nearly tripling orders from department stores.

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